If you're craving a sweet, savory, and utterly mouthwatering dish, you've come to the right place. This Honey Butter Chicken recipe is a perfect combination of tender chicken coated in a crispy crust and drizzled with a luscious honey butter sauce. It's a dish that balances the richness of butter with the sweetness of honey, while the savory notes from soy sauce and apple cider vinegar add depth to every bite. Stick around to learn how to make this delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat.
What is Honey Butter Chicken?
Honey Butter Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the flavors of tender, crispy chicken with a sweet and savory sauce. The chicken is first coated in a seasoned flour mixture and then pan-fried until golden brown. The magic happens when you drizzle or toss the chicken in a rich, buttery sauce made from a blend of honey, butter, soy sauce, and a touch of vinegar. This dish is perfect for anyone who loves the combination of sweet and savory flavors, and it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients List for Honey Butter Chicken
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb chicken breasts, diced: These should be cut into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking and eating.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: This helps create a crispy coating on the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, aromatic garlic flavor to the chicken.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Provides a gentle heat that balances the sweetness of the honey.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the flavor of the chicken with a savory note.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Seasons the chicken and enhances all the other flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a bit of spice and depth to the seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Used for frying the chicken to give it a rich, buttery flavor.
- 1 tablespoon canola oil, or any vegetable oil: Helps the chicken cook evenly and prevents it from sticking to the pan.
- 1 tablespoon green onions, sliced: Adds a fresh, vibrant garnish to the finished dish.
For the Honey Butter Sauce:
- 5 tbsps butter, room temperature: Forms the base of the sauce, making it rich and creamy.
- ½ cup honey: Provides the sweet component that balances the savory elements.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor that complements the honey.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Gives the sauce a tangy kick, balancing the sweetness.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the sauce, making it well-rounded.
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a hint of spice to the sauce.
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re looking to customize this Honey Butter Chicken recipe, there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Here are some substitutions and variations that can suit different tastes and dietary needs:
- Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, you can substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Thighs are juicier and have a richer flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Spicy Honey Butter Chicken: Increase the cayenne pepper to ½ teaspoon or add some red pepper flakes to the honey butter sauce for a spicier kick.
- Lemon Honey Butter Sauce: Replace apple cider vinegar with freshly squeezed lemon juice for a citrusy twist on the sauce.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or cauliflower florets. Both options can be coated in the flour mixture and fried until crispy.
- Maple Butter Chicken: Swap out the honey for pure maple syrup to create a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Ready to make this delectable Honey Butter Chicken? Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect results every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by dicing the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help the flour mixture adhere better and create a crispier coating.
Step 2: Season and Coat the Chicken
In a shallow bowl or plate, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed. Toss the chicken pieces in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and oil to the pan. Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, carefully add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Honey Butter Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, stir in the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, salt, and ground black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer for a couple of minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and all the ingredients are well combined.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Once the sauce is ready, you have two options. You can either drizzle the honey butter sauce over the crispy chicken pieces or toss the chicken directly in the saucepan to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Either way, the chicken should be served immediately to maintain its crispy texture.
How to Cook Honey Butter Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking Honey Butter Chicken involves a few simple steps, but each one is crucial to achieving that perfect balance of crispy chicken and rich, flavorful sauce. Here’s a more detailed guide to help you master this recipe.
- Preparation: Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Measure out the flour, spices, and other components before you start cooking. This makes the process smoother and ensures you don’t miss anything.
- Coating the Chicken: The key to a crispy coating is to make sure the chicken pieces are well-coated in the flour mixture. Press the flour onto the chicken to ensure it sticks. If you prefer an even crispier texture, you can double-coat the chicken by dipping it in a beaten egg before coating it in the flour mixture again.
- Cooking the Chicken: When frying the chicken, the oil and butter should be hot enough to create a sizzle when the chicken is added to the pan. However, the heat shouldn’t be so high that the chicken browns too quickly, leaving the inside undercooked. Medium heat is ideal.
- Making the Sauce: The honey butter sauce is simple but crucial. Cook it over low heat to prevent the butter from burning and to allow the flavors to meld together. Stir constantly to ensure a smooth sauce.
- Combining: If you toss the chicken in the sauce, do it quickly and serve immediately to prevent the chicken from becoming soggy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes can have pitfalls. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Honey Butter Chicken:
- Overcrowding the Pan: Adding too much chicken to the pan at once can lower the oil’s temperature, leading to soggy, greasy chicken instead of a crispy crust. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Not Patting the Chicken Dry: Moisture on the chicken will prevent the flour from sticking properly, resulting in a less crispy coating.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breasts can become dry if overcooked. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the pan as soon as they’re golden brown and cooked through.
- Burning the Butter: When making the sauce, keep the heat low to avoid burning the butter, which can give the sauce a bitter taste.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Now that your Honey Butter Chicken is ready, it’s time to think about how to serve and present it. The way you plate this dish can make it even more appealing.
How to Serve Honey Butter Chicken
Honey Butter Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Rice: Serve the chicken over steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the extra sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the crispy chicken and rich sauce.
- Vegetables: A side of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus adds a fresh, healthy balance to the dish.
- Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the chicken and sauce.
Presentation Ideas for Honey Butter Chicken
For a visually appealing presentation, consider the following tips:
- Garnish with Green Onions: Sprinkle sliced green onions over the chicken for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Drizzle Extra Sauce: If you’ve got extra sauce, drizzle it artistically over the chicken and around the plate for added visual appeal.
- Serve in a Cast-Iron Skillet: Presenting the chicken in the skillet it was cooked in adds a rustic, homey touch to the meal.
Honey Butter Chicken Recipe Tips
Here are some additional tips to ensure your Honey Butter Chicken turns out perfectly every time:
- Use Room Temperature Butter: For the sauce, using room-temperature butter helps it melt evenly and combine smoothly with the other ingredients.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the honey slightly. Taste the sauce as you go and adjust the ingredients to suit your palate.
- Crispy Chicken: For an extra crispy coating, try adding a bit of cornstarch to the flour mixture or double-fry the chicken pieces by frying them for a second time after they’ve cooled slightly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: While the chicken is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently before tossing with the chicken.
Q: Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
A: Yes, you can bake the chicken at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and cooked through. However, baking might not yield the same crispiness as frying.
Q: What can I use instead of soy sauce?
A: If you’re avoiding soy, you can use tamari (for a gluten-free option) or coconut aminos as a substitute.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: To add more heat, increase the cayenne pepper in the flour mixture or add some hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the honey butter sauce.
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: While you can use margarine, butter provides a richer flavor that’s ideal for this sauce. If you’re using margarine, choose one with a high fat content for better results.
Conclusion
This Honey Butter Chicken recipe is a fantastic dish that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. With its crispy, tender chicken and rich, flavorful sauce, it’s a perfect combination of sweet and savory that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
PrintHoney Butter Chicken Recipe
This Honey Butter Chicken recipe features tender, seasoned chicken breasts cooked in a luscious honey butter sauce. The perfect blend of garlic, cayenne, and soy sauce adds a sweet and savory kick. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners or a special treat, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Chicken:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 lb chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp canola oil (or any vegetable oil)
- 1 tbsp green onions, sliced
- Honey Butter Sauce:
- 5 tbsps butter, room temperature
- ½ cup honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- ¼ tsp salt
- ⅛ tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Coat diced chicken in the flour mixture.
- Heat unsalted butter and canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the coated chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, melt the butter for the sauce, then stir in honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and coat with the honey butter sauce. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and glazed.
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to your spice preference.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or vegetables.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 4 oz chicken with sauce)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 500mg
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